Parc del Tossal

Parc del Tossal (Spanish: Parque Monte Tossal) is an urban park in Alicante, built into the slope of Monte Tossal right next to the Castillo de San Fernando. Covering roughly 63,000 m², it was inaugurated in 1995 to a design by architect Rafael Rivera. What sets it apart from an ordinary city park is its layout: a series of terraces built to mirror the geography of the Valencian Community as a whole.

Where is the park and how do you get there?

The park sits in central Alicante, on the hillside of Monte Tossal, along Calle Escultor Bañuls. It borders the Castillo de San Fernando directly, so the two sites are easy to combine into a single outing. Because the park climbs the slope, reaching the upper terraces means walking uphill, but the views along the way make the climb worthwhile.

What is the idea behind the terraced layout?

The park's defining feature is its original concept: the terrain was shaped into terraces that recreate, in simplified and symbolic form, the geography of the Valencian Community divided into its comarcas (traditional counties). It blends the region's real geography with fictional, playful elements, landing somewhere between an educational trail and a piece of open-air entertainment. Each terrace carries information panels describing the comarca it represents and the activities associated with it, which gives a walk through the park an extra layer of interest, particularly for families with school-age children.

What views does the park offer?

Thanks to its position on the Monte Tossal hillside, the park opens up panoramic views over Alicante and the Mediterranean Sea. From the higher terraces, visitors can look out over the rooftops of the old town toward the coastline, making the park a good stop during a longer walk through Alicante's historic quarter. The views are especially striking in the late afternoon and early evening, when light coming off the sea brings out the city's silhouette.

What can visitors do there?

Above all, the park is a place for walking and unwinding outdoors: paths run between the terraces, and open green sections invite picnics or a quiet break away from the bustle of the city center. The terrain and the neighboring castle also draw people who enjoy hiking the hills around Alicante, for whom the park works well as a starting point or a stop along the way.

Is it worth pairing with other attractions?

Its proximity to the Castillo de San Fernando makes it natural to treat a visit as part of a broader tour of Alicante's hills. The castle itself, less famous than the Santa Bárbara castle overlooking the city, has its own viewpoints and remnants of old fortifications, which complements the park's educational, thematic character well.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to Parc del Tossal free? Yes, it is a public city park with free admission.

How do you get to the park? It's located in central Alicante on Calle Escultor Bañuls, next to the Castillo de San Fernando, and is best reached on foot or by local public transport.

What is the park's main highlight? The terraced layout that mirrors the geography of the Valencian Community's comarcas, with information panels explaining each one.

Can you see the sea from the park? Yes, the higher terraces on the Monte Tossal hillside give views over the city toward the Mediterranean.

Is it a good place to bring children? Yes, the educational terraces and the calm, green setting make it a solid choice for a family walk.